Manufacturing USA joined community college leaders at the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Annual Conference, April 10–14, 2026, in Seattle, Washington, to highlight how network initiatives are strengthening the workforce driving advanced manufacturing innovation. Through resources, institute–college collaborations, and industry-aligned frameworks, the network is helping colleges build the skilled talent manufacturers need.
Engaging Educators and Workforce Leaders at AACC 2026
Throughout the conference, Manufacturing USA representatives engaged with educators, administrators, and workforce leaders through a combination of panel discussions and an exhibit booth, highlighting how the network’s 17 innovation institutes partner with community colleges to deliver education and training aligned with industry needs.
Showcasing Hands-On Workforce Development Tools
At the booth, the team shared network-wide workforce development resources and concrete examples of applied institute offerings. MxD staff led demonstrations of the MxD Virtual Training Center (VTC), providing real-world examples of how community colleges can access industry-aligned, ready-to-use training in digital manufacturing, cybersecurity, AI, and supply chain operations.
Advancing the Manufacturing USA Occupational and Competency Framework
Manufacturing USA’s presence at AACC was further amplified through two panel sessions focused on the practical application of the Manufacturing USA Occupational and Competency Framework within community colleges. These sessions brought together perspectives from institutes, higher education, and government to demonstrate how the framework supports program design and industry alignment. Panelists included Lavinia Sebastian (PowerAmerica) and Rebecca Lewis (NextFlex), who shared how their institutes use the framework in partnership with community colleges. Sam Samanta (Finger Lakes Community College) provided an educator’s perspective on adopting the framework in academic settings, while Joseph Long (NIST Office of Advanced Manufacturing) connected these efforts to Manufacturing USA’s broader workforce strategy.
Beyond individual conversations and sessions, Manufacturing USA’s participation at AACC reinforced the value of sustained collaboration between educators, industry, and innovation partners to build the advanced manufacturing workforce.